Also known as Liverleaf · 214 saves
Hepatica
Hepatica, the genus most gardeners know as liverleaf. We track 6 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 6 most-saved Hepatica varieties
Species of Hepatica
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Hepatica in Sow
Save the Hepatica you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Hepatica
Whats common across all Hepatica varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 6 most-grown of them.
The Hepatica year
- MulchMarch and October100% of varieties
Apply leaf mold or fine compost to keep roots cool and moist.
- Spring CleanupFebruary100% of varieties
Remove old, tattered foliage just before new flowers emerge.
- PlantMarch, September and October67% of varieties
Plant or transplant in early spring or early fall.
- DivideApril50% of varieties
Divide only when necessary, immediately after flowering.
- FertilizeMarch33% of varieties
Apply a light, balanced fertilizer or compost tea as growth begins.
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture
- Mulch to retain moisture and keep roots cool
- Divide clumps in early spring to promote healthy growth
Avoid
- Do not let soil dry out completely
- Avoid excessive sunlight which can scorch leaves ❌
- Do not allow soil to dry out completely
- Avoid heavy fertilization that can promote weak growth
What goes wrong with Hepatica
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Spray with insecticidal soap |
| Slugs | Chewed leaves and ragged edges | Use organic slug pellets or handpick at night |
| Root rot | Wilting and blackened roots | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Root rot | Wilting and yellowing leaves | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Powdery mildew | White powdery coating on leaves | Apply organic fungicide and improve air circulation |
Making more Hepatica
Seed
- Sow seeds in moist, acidic soil in fall.
- Stratify seeds in refrigerator for 8-12 weeks.
- Transplant seedlings after germination in early spring.
Division
- Divide clumps in early spring or fall.
- Plant divisions at same depth and water thoroughly.
Hepatica questions
How many types of Hepatica are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 6 distinct Hepatica varieties. The most popular — ranked by 214 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Hepatica grow in?
Across its varieties, Hepatica covers USDA Zones 4–9. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Hepatica bloom?
Most Hepatica varieties bloom in early spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Hepatica should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.